Eco-Friendly Construction: 4 Old and New Materials Gaining Green Favor

In eco-friendly construction, nothing is ever old. Everything is new. Innovation is always happening in the field, leading to the creation of eco-friendly, renewable technologies like solar energy. Meanwhile, the growing trend of recycling materials in construction alleviates of the strain of overmining the earth’s finite resources. Not only does eco-friendly design make the general contracting field more socially and environmentally responsible, but it also allows their clients to reap more benefits than they would with traditional construction. For example, these four new or recycled materials do much more than support a building.

4 Recycled or New Eco-Friendly Construction Materials

Repurposed concrete

The most common material in C&D waste is concrete. Originally, after a building was demolished, the waste removal team would deposit the concrete in landfills. Today, general contractors have become more sophisticated and use technologies that break down and recycle concrete. It is otherwise called repurposed concrete. These eco-friendly construction materials are just as strong as regular concrete.

Aerogel insulation

Heating and cooling play the biggest role in energy consumption. Insulation is the key to saving money on heating and cooling, but some insulation is better than others. While fiberglass is the standard in residential and commercial construction, scientists devoted themselves to finding a more efficient, eco-friendly insulator. This led to the creation of aerogel, a gel that practically nullifies heat transference and is comprised mostly of air. While used primarily in aeronautical engineering, aerogel may replace fiberglass in office and homes the world over.

Reclaimed wood

Much like repurposed concrete, reclaimed wood found in landfills and demolition sites is becoming a popular solution to deforestation issues. Not only is reclaimed wood just as structurally sound as new lumber, used in interior design or remodeling project, it looks fantastic. Additionally, the LEED Certification organization offers incentives for using reclaimed wood.

Spider silk

While delicate looking, natural spider silk is stronger than steel weight-by-weight. But does this have to do with eco-friendly construction materials? Scientist have recently made advancement creating a synthetic spider silk which can eventually be used for a variety of construction projects. This includes anything from using it as structural support or laying a stronger drywall.

Eco-Friendly Construction Techniques

Consult with Nigro Construction for all your eco-friendly construction needs. Our firm specializes in eco-friendly construction techniques and utilizing recycled materials in construction. The world will thank you.